Nearly 40 people arrested for drink or drug driving as Christmas crackdown continues

Don’t Risk It is the message for drivers this December as almost 40 people have been arrested for drink and drug driving offences since our Christmas operation began. 

On December 1, 2024, we launched our annual month-long campaign urging drivers to plan their journeys in advance if they intend to consume alcohol or illegal drugs over the festive season. 

Patrols have been stepped up and 39 arrests were made in the first 17 days. Nine took place over the past weekend.

Ruvarashe Charuma, 24, was stopped by a marked police car on Larkhill Road, Durrington, on Friday (13/12) due to the poor manner of her driving. 

Charuma, of Silver Street in Trowbridge, refused to provide an evidential specimen for analysis in custody and was subsequently charged. She has been released on bail. 

Roads Policing Inspector Steve Jolly said: “As we approach Christmas, more people will be out drinking and unfortunately some will make the fateful decision to drive home drunk.

“We are urging these people to seriously consider the consequences of doing this. If you are caught, the best-case scenario is that you will lose your driving licence for a minimum of 12 months. At worst, you could kill yourself or someone else."

“It’s completely unacceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol or illegal drugs. Please think carefully about whether you are fit to drive – it’s simply not worth the risk.” 

Officers will continue to target drink and drug drivers throughout the county every day and we encourage the public to report anyone who they suspect may be committing a driving offence.